2018 Kia Carnival vs 2019

What's the difference?

Kia's Carnival has the people mover market all sewn up, but perhaps it should be looking at claiming some scalps within the larger SUV segment as well. It has a more comfortable, quieter ride than many of its rivals at similar price points, as well as a great deal more flexibility when it comes to people and cargo.

The Kia Carnival definitely should be added to the shopping lists of people who are looking for a vehicle that can suit many lifestyles and is flexible enough to deal with towing, cargo carrying, and the occasional full load of excited soccer kids.

It is perhaps a bit expensive for some family units, although the base model S now offers extra value, thanks to the additional safety inclusions.

The pick of the range for us is the SLi. It offers most of the inclusions of the top-spec Platinum - though it does miss out on items like rear cross-traffic alert - and the 18-inch rims are the perfect balance of looks and ride comfort. The diesel is the pick if you cover any sort of distance regularly, while the thirstier petrol will be cheaper to maintain for urban duties.

The Kia Carnival SLi Diesel delivers comfortable and relaxed family transport, handling the rigors of the Cleary family’s Griswold holiday tribute without raising a single bead of perspiration. It’s hugely practical, well equipped, surprisingly economical and backed by a market-leading warranty package.

If you take a good hard look at yourself in the mirror, and see a large family crowding in behind you, it could be the high-capacity hauler you really need.